The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is preparing to carry out a comprehensive overhaul of its South-South zonal and state structures in a decisive move aimed at removing disloyal elements and preventing further defections.
A member of the PDP’s National Working Committee (NWC), who spoke to Sunday PUNCH on condition of anonymity, revealed that the planned restructuring is part of broader efforts to reposition the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“The party is deeply concerned about the recent wave of defections and is determined to take firm action,” the source said. “This will not be business as usual. Following the departure of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, the NWC convened and agreed to challenge their defections in court. That legal process is currently ongoing. As for Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno, who defected on Saturday, the party will respond after the Sallah break.”
According to the source, these defections have seriously disrupted the party’s internal balance, as many of the defecting leaders had loyalists in key positions across the state and zonal levels. “The time has come to clean house. We are going to revamp the leadership in the South-South to ensure that only loyal and committed members remain. There’s no room left for political opportunists who flee at the first sign of trouble.”
Since the 2023 general elections, the PDP has struggled with internal discord and high-profile exits, weakening its political base. On April 23, Governor Oborevwori, his predecessor Ifeanyi Okowa, and several top party figures defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Last weekend, after prolonged secret talks with APC leaders, Governor Eno and other officials followed suit.
These departures have dealt a significant blow to the party’s image and have raised concerns about its strength going into the 2027 elections.
Responding to the latest defection, PDP Deputy National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor called on other disloyal members to leave sooner rather than later, so the party could focus on rebuilding with committed members.
“No political party wants to lose major assets—especially not a sitting governor from a strategic state like Akwa Ibom,” Osadolor said. “But what Nigeria needs now are sincere patriots focused on nation-building, not politicians chasing personal gain. Sadly, those we once admired as models of integrity have proven otherwise—mere inflated reputations in oversized shoes.”
He also criticized Governor Eno, a cleric, for prioritizing his political survival over the public good.
“Given his background, many hoped his leadership would reflect compassion and service. But his actions show that his priority is securing a second term, not the welfare of Nigerians,” Osadolor added.
Still, Osadolor expressed confidence that these defections would ultimately benefit the PDP, allowing it to regroup and re-energize.
“I said earlier this year—those looking for transport fare to leave should do so now. If they need help, they can come to Wadata Plaza, and we’ll gladly show them the way out. Let them go now rather than stay behind and sabotage the party. We who truly believe in this party are committed to its revival. All hope is not lost.”